Help! My Child's Afraid of the Water: What Can You Do?

Some children are afraid of water. It may not always make sense, but that doesn't mean the fear isn't there. You may not be able to explain why they are afraid of the water – especially if they were fine with it before – but you can help them to overcome their fear.

The main thing to remember when it comes to helping a child become comfortable with water after being afraid of it is to be patient. This could be a long process and you need to ensure that you don't lose your temper, as this could undo the work you've already done.

As well as that, here are some things you can do to help your little ones be happier in the water.

Make bath time fun

One of the easiest ways to start helping your child overcome their fear is at bath time. This is your perfect opportunity to show them how safe and fun water can be.

By making their time in the bath as entertaining as possible, they will start to relate water to fun, alleviating some of their concerns. Even if they are reluctant when it comes to getting in the bath, you can help them forget that by providing games or activities when they are in the water.

Toys, bubbles and fun washing products can help to make bath time entertaining, while also igniting their imagination. You can even provide them with games they can play, such as bath basketball.

The more fun they have, the easier it will be to get them in the bath and to help them forget their fear.

Swim regularly

When it comes to making them comfortable in a larger body of water, the key is to take them swimming as regularly as possible. This will help them get used to the water more quickly and limit the time in between swims, when they can convince themselves they are frightened again.

It is a good idea to go once weekly to the same pool. This will help them to feel safe, as they will come to learn where the pool changes depth, as well as where they can get out. Helping them to feel secure in their environment is key to them overcoming their fear.

You may also want to go to the pool when it is quieter in a bid to provide a calmer environment. This will help them relax much more quickly and allow them to simply enjoy being in the water.

Make them feel safe

Safety is a big aspect when it comes to overcoming a fear. Your little one needs to know that they are safe, as this will help them to stop worrying.

A good way to do this is to provide them with something that they know will help them in the water. A buoyancy aid is ideal, as they can put it on and instantly feel more secure.

The Original Konfidence Jacket is the perfect choice, as it is practical as they continue their water journey, while also being comfortable. It comes with removable floats that allow you to tailor the level of support to their need. This means that you can take out floats as their swimming ability and water confidence increase.

The jacket is made of soft neoprene, providing a comfortable fit that allows for natural movement. This ensures that your little one can learn to swim without obstruction, helping them feel happier in the water.

You can even make the jacket more fun by opting for one from our new Octonauts range.

Praise them

Whether they make big steps to becoming happier in the water or just win a small victory, it is important to tell your child how well they are doing. This praise reinforces their confidence and can really help them to feel safer in the water.